Audible Illusions modulus 3A, what would be the next level of up grade?

+1 ssand.

I only did a six month stretch and used original equipped tubes. The excuses for what was initially described as a two week all needed parts were on hand repair/upgrade became the most unbelievably lame experience. I even took to using unfamiliar phone numbers to simply get through to them.

It wasn't until I demanded in a registered letter to return my preamp and refund my money when I received the completed unit eight business days later.

After the repair/upgrade it didn't sound any different and the replaced dual mono attenuators had little change in their range as was promised. I listened to it for a few hours and put up for sale. I wouldn't recommend any aspect of that preamplifier or their support.

If I'm not mistaken this was the inspiration and Audibly a huge step up to my ear.

 https://hometheaterhifi.com/volume_10_3/bruce-moore-companion-iii-preamplifier-7-2003.html

there has been some good feedback and suggestions so far. Interesting experiences as well. Thanks.
I seem to be drawn to the Don Sach pre amp, at the moment.
being a newbie on this site, how do you PM someone?

Hi-

I posted a review about a number of (phono) preamps recently that included a stint with a mod 3b (also had a mod 3a).  
See my: Preamp Shootout thread in the forum.
As an update to my piece - I am now listening to the following: Benz LP-S, Coincident Dragons and VSA VR-4SR’s. using two phono sections- the Doge 8 Clarity with Sylvania 5751 tubes in the phono (and GE 6201’s in the linestage ) and an EAR SUT or an Aesthetix I/O sig with NOS tubes into the linestage of the Doge 8.  Both setups are awesome in their own right but for price/performance,j the Doge 8 with a SUT is almost untouchable.

I would also recommend checking out the Calypso. I am using one currently after owning an Audible Illusions L-1. I would not describe the Calypso as noisy. They did have at one point a batch of noisy tubes sent out, so that may be the issue. I am still getting used to the sound, but I would say there is a texture to the sound, that may not be as “clean” as the AI, but somehow is more organic, with weight to the music. Imaging is also improved. It is definitely worth a listen.

Move up to the Audible Illusions Modulus 3B.  It is light years ahead of the Modulus 3A.  I owned the original Modulus 3, 3A and 3B.  The 3B is absolutely dead quiet and the music just really flows.  It is a bargain at the retail price and I saw one here a week or two ago for around 3 grand.